My Ranger needs a new belt. It doesn't appear to have anything to do with engine timing but I'm a bit leerly of just jumping in and replacing it. How difficult is it to replace the serpentine belt and are there any gotcha's I should be aware of?

Nope. Just release the tensioner and replace the belt. It will come right off and the new one will go right on. The tensioner is just a 3/8 socket drive i think and you rotate it to release the tension. It helps to have a second person to do that while you remove and replace the belt. It can be done by one person, just a little more challenging to maneuver it all with one hand.

My Ranger has about 73,000 miles on her. The belt isn't expensive but a tensioner is about $55 at PepBoys. Should the tensioner be replaced at the same time? Also, PepBoys lists an install tool for another $30. Is that needed or just the right size socket?

Hey dude! To replace the belt, all you gotta do is get a 3/8 drive ratchet with a 15mm socket. Place the socket on the bolt of the tensioner pulley. Push down with your right hand and pull the belt off with your left hand. Make sure you put the belt on the same way it came off. Bad things could happen if you put it on the wrong way. I recommend looking at the diagram on the top of the front clip (where the radiator is mounted to). If there is not a diagram there.... take a picture and use that as a reference. Hope this helps!